Question

A client, who is nearing death, believes in Hinduism. The nurse should plan for which action?

A. At the time of death, the family may request that a priest will trickle milk or holy water into the mouth of the client
B. From the moment of death, the body is never left alone until after burial, which usually occurs within 24 hours of death
C. The family must be with the client during the process of dying and are responsible to wash the body at least three times after death
D. The elders may be with the client during the process of dying and no last rites are given

Answer 1

For a Hindu client nearing death, a nurse should plan to accommodate the family's request for a priest to perform end-of-life rituals, such as trickling milk or holy water into the client's mouth, and prepare for the family's involvement in caring for the client. Hindu traditions typically favor cremation, and the family is deeply involved in the death and dying process.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client who is nearing death and believes in Hinduism would have particular needs and traditions to be considered. In Hindu culture, it is common that at the time of death, the family might request that a priest trickles milk or holy water into the mouth of the dying person. This is part of the Hindu rituals and practices in regards to death. Hindus generally prefer cremation over burial, and the ceremony is often conducted with specific rituals, including the bathing of the body and the presence of a priest.

The family often plays a significant role in the process of dying, providing care and performing the rituals necessary as per their belief system. It is also important to note that after death, the body is usually not left alone until the cremation takes place. Pilgrimages, especially to the Ganges River in Varanasi, are significant for many Hindus as they believe the waters can absolve sin, and it is considered auspicious to die in Varanasi.